Which cranial nerve does NOT control eye movements?

The correct choice is that the cranial nerve that does not control eye movements is cranial nerve II. This nerve, also known as the optic nerve, is primarily responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain. Its main function is related to vision rather than motor control of eye movements.

Cranial nerves III, IV, and VI are all directly involved in controlling various eye movements. Cranial nerve III (oculomotor nerve) innervates most of the eye's extraocular muscles, allowing for vertical movements and the ability to control pupil constriction. Cranial nerve IV (trochlear nerve) controls the superior oblique muscle, which assists in downward and inward eye movement. Cranial nerve VI (abducens nerve) controls the lateral rectus muscle, which is responsible for moving the eye outward, away from the midline.

Understanding the distinct roles of these cranial nerves clarifies why cranial nerve II stands out as the one not involved in eye movement control.